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The All-Russia Popular Front (ONF) organization led by the ruling United Russia party has declared itself an official political movement.

President Vladimir Putin, who initiated the creation of the ONF in 2011, attended the organization's congress on June 12.

During the meeting, the organization changed its name into the Popular Front for Russia -- Public Movement.

It also adopted a new charter and decided to establish branches in all regions of the Russian Federation.

The ONF was established to broaden the ruling party's electoral base with labor unions, nongovernmental organizations, business associations, and youth groups during Putin's 2012 presidential election campaign.

After winning his third presidential term last year, Putin said that the ONF should remain active as a public movement.